Popular destinations in SA that young people can visit

Cape Harbour with the mountain as a backdrop. Photo: Wikimedia commons

South Africa has proven repeatedly that it is a beautiful country that is alive with possibility. This means that it has many gems that young people can spend time at. The best way to start traveling, is to start in your own backyard. So, where will your shot'left in Mzansi take you? Maybe you can try these:

1. Nelspruit

While this destination may not seem to be the most exciting, a recent trip to the place of the rising sun has proven that there is a lot to see and do in the province of Mpumalanga. Whether it be trips to all the wonders of the province like the Blyde River Canyon or searching for a vibrant nightlife, if you look hard enough you'll find a great balance of both.

Can you get there by bus: Yes! There are several bus companies in the country that provide trips to the province.

2. Cape Town

This is the ultimate city for back packers. Cape Town offers a little bit of everything for everyone. If you're into nature and hiking then you're set-the Table Mountain and Lion's Head are waiting for your arrival. And if you fancy the cultural side of life, the music and arts scenes of the country are vibrant and bubbling. You just need to know where to look.

Can you get there by bus: Of course.

3. Bloemfontein

This is a charming, historical city. It will provide all the historical experiences and lessons for every traveler. For young people, it is the ideal city to trace the roots of South Africa's troubled past to-it features some interesting monuments and museums. Like the Vroe Monument, that traces the story of women and children in the Anglo Boer War of 1899. And like most of South Africa's more cosmopolitan cities, finding entertainment in the city should not be daunting or difficult.

Can you get there by bus: Yes!

Things to keep in mind when planning your trip:

-Find a reputable guide to help you plan your trip. Allow yourself to become a tourist in your own backyard, that way you will get to experience the best that every city has to offer.

- Save! save! save! When you have enough money for your trip, the experience becomes better. You have access to some of the best activities that the country has to offer

-Pick a city you don't know. Learn the country as though you were a foreign tourist. You can never know too much about the country. And it's far easier to be proud of and passionate about the country when you know its nooks and crannies.

-Look for affordable modes of transport. While travelling by bus may take longer, it's comparatively speaking cheaper. This leaves you more money for other aspects of the trip.